Summary: Not only is North Carolina "First in Flight", but we are also preparing to be "Next in Flight" with a statewide plan for integrating unmanned aircraft systems (UAS). This presentation will cover the current UAS integration activities in the state including NCDOT research with NC State, policy development, and future plans. The NextGen Air Transportation Program at NC State (NGAT) has been flying UAS since 2013 under the FAA's Certificate of Authorization program and is working tightly with state government agencies to ensure the safety of the national airspace system.

About the speaker:In 2012 Kyle returned home to North Carolina to lead the development of an Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Ecosystem as part of an effort to transition the state to a modern air transportation system. Through his experiences in industry, academia, government, and the non-profit sector, Kyle has developed a unique perspective and skill set for transitioning new aviation technologies from research laboratories and prototype phases into operational products. In the role as the NGAT Program Director, Kyle is reaching across North Carolina to connect researchers and educators with industry and government offices that are preparing for future aviation capabilities. Having seen the initial Space Shuttle launches from his backyard as kid, to standing on the flight line for a couple of the last SR-71 flights at NASA Dryden, to being a driving force in the domestic integration of UAS for civil and commercial operations, Kyle continues to be inspired by science of flight and seeks to share those moments with those around him (especially his wife and young son!).